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Stealing Cinderella
Every royal has their dirty little secret. His was… me.
It should have been simple.
Go to the ball, meet the prince, and secure his patronage for my favorite charity.
But beneath the mask, the brooding beast of a man was not at all who I expected.
He was dark and intense and eerily quiet.
When I left, I could still feel the ghost of his touch branded into my skin.
He haunted my dreams, but I never expected to see him again.
Then he came for me.
And he took me.
And I learned that his darkness was a void I never could have conceived.
He’s the crown prince of Norway.
And, now, I’m his captive.
It should have been simple.
Go to the ball, meet the prince, and secure his patronage for my favorite charity.
But beneath the mask, the brooding beast of a man was not at all who I expected.
He was dark and intense and eerily quiet.
When I left, I could still feel the ghost of his touch branded into my skin.
He haunted my dreams, but I never expected to see him again.
Then he came for me.
And he took me.
And I learned that his darkness was a void I never could have conceived.
He’s the crown prince of Norway.
And, now, I’m his captive.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2020
About the author
A. Zavarelli
68 books6,544 followersA. Zavarelli is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author of dark and contemporary romance.
When she’s not putting her characters through hell, she can usually be found watching bizarre and twisted documentaries in the name of research.
She currently lives in the Northwest with her lumberjack and an entire brood of fur babies.
Facebook Page- https://geni.us/AZavarelliAuthor
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Bookbub- https://geni.us/AZavarelliBookbub
Twitter- https://geni.us/AZavarelliTwitter
Website- https://www.azavarelli.com
When she’s not putting her characters through hell, she can usually be found watching bizarre and twisted documentaries in the name of research.
She currently lives in the Northwest with her lumberjack and an entire brood of fur babies.
Facebook Page- https://geni.us/AZavarelliAuthor
Facebook Reader Group- https://geni.us/FemmeFatales
Mailing List: https://geni.us/ucfAZH1
Instagram- https://geni.us/AZavarelliInstagram
Amazon- https://geni.us/AZavarelliAmazon
Bookbub- https://geni.us/AZavarelliBookbub
Twitter- https://geni.us/AZavarelliTwitter
Website- https://www.azavarelli.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 809 reviews
April 6, 2020
Meh.
I just don't think fairy tale re-tellings are for me...I never end up liking them. Also, even the elements of the story that were NONE fairy tale related (the H and his "damaged" past, etc) just felt like something I had read before many times.
Not to mention there was a bit of bdsm in here...which I am not opposed to by ANY means. I just think there was a period where the market was saturated with it and I over-read it...and now have no interest.
Which is a bummer, since I really love this author and her Boston Underworld series. Oh well, it's probably just me. I can see other people really liking this book. I think I would have too if I had read it a few years ago...but I've just read too much similar stuff at this point.
I just don't think fairy tale re-tellings are for me...I never end up liking them. Also, even the elements of the story that were NONE fairy tale related (the H and his "damaged" past, etc) just felt like something I had read before many times.
Not to mention there was a bit of bdsm in here...which I am not opposed to by ANY means. I just think there was a period where the market was saturated with it and I over-read it...and now have no interest.
Which is a bummer, since I really love this author and her Boston Underworld series. Oh well, it's probably just me. I can see other people really liking this book. I think I would have too if I had read it a few years ago...but I've just read too much similar stuff at this point.
April 4, 2020
I'll start with an apology:
I LOVE A. Zavarelli. her writing, her original story lines and dark characters... but dammit, I hated this book!!!
A fairy tale...? HA! It was like one of those newsletters warning young girls what *NOT* to do! 😂😭
The story begins like a normal Cinderella tale: Ella's father remarried and when he died, Ella blames herself for his death and lets her stepmother and wicked step sisters treat her like a maid as a punishment. But when Ella goes to the prom to meet the English prince so she could convince him to donate to the animal shelter she volunteers in, there is a twist... She accidentally meets with the Norwegian prince, instead. 👑😱
Prince Thorsen hates all women (and himself) - secrets from his past made his soul dark.
The prince is amazed by Ella's kindness, so what does he do...? He looks for the stunning girl that left behind a silver shoe all over the kingdom, then he... 👠
Finds her.
Drags her.
Kidnaps her.
And locks her in his manor, tied naked to a bed.
DAMN, that's totally not what I expected to happen!!!
On the other hand, the name of the book was supposed to imply that... 😂😂😂
Thorsen offers her an offer she can't refuse (REALLY...? *eye roll*) - to stay with him for two months, in which he will do whatever he wants with her, and in return he will send money to the shelter (Oh, like every virgin's dream). 😭
So... probably because she loves animals so much, Ella has no problem to be his royal pet, and she agrees.
And so... even while he painfully spanks her and *force* her to go down on him, she thinks:
"𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲, 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗵𝗼 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁. 𝗜𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝘆 𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗲?"
Meanwhile, all I could think was - *RAPE RAPE! RAPE!* 📣📣📣
Then, since she's a virgin, Prince Thorson decides not to waste that first time (what a gentleman! 🤦♀️) so he f*cks her from behind... and despite the dirty things he does, she still uses embarrassing names for his body parts;
"𝗛𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗼𝘆𝗮𝗹 𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗱 / 𝗥𝗼𝘆𝗮𝗹 𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁..." 😭
If it wasn't clear, I didn't like them both and didn't really care what would happen to them, I just flipped through pages, got upset and rolled my eyes - because I didn't have something else to read.
Ella was childish and suffered from severe Stockholm syndrome - I wanted to pat her head and donate money to professionals to look after her. 😂
And Thorsen? I hurt for what happened to him, which made him think all woman are untruest worthy... but nothing about him was sexy or mysterious. He was just repulsive. 😬
After a crazy drama with her wicked stepmother and step sisters - our prince realizes that Ella is the light in his dark life... they fall in love and continue to have kinky sex forever and ever, till death do them part:
"...𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘁𝘆𝗽𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗳𝗮𝗶𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗲 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗺𝘆 𝗵𝘂𝘀𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗸𝘀 𝗺𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝘂𝗰𝗸𝘀 𝗺𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝘄𝗻𝘀 𝗺𝗲, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗶𝘁’𝘀 𝗮 𝗳𝗮𝗶𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗲 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝗺𝗲."
The plot didn't make sense to me - not as a fairy tale or as a kidnapping story... and if this is a fairy tale, I'd rather stay in reality. 😭😭😭
***The book will be available on 2.4.20 and will suit anyone who has no problem with the following triggers: abductions, psychological and physical abuse, sexual assault, BDSM without a safe word, mental illness and suicide attempts. 💥
*** 𝕀 𝕣𝕖𝕔𝕖𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕟 𝔸ℝℂ 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕒𝕦𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕣 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕒𝕟 𝕙𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨 ***
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📖 ᖴOᒪᒪOᗯ ᗰE Oᑎ IᑎᔕTᗩGᖇᗩᗰ: 🎉 https://www.instagram.com/the_romanti...
📖 ᐯIᔕIT ᗰY ᗷᒪOG ᖴOᖇ ᗰOᖇE ᖇEᐯIEᗯᔕ: https://books-romance.com/
March 27, 2020
A very dark and steamy take on the Cinderella story!
You discover right away that this retelling of the Cinderella story was going to be much darker than the original. Not that the original wasn’t a bit dark in its own way. I mean we do know that the evil stepmother most likely killed the King, whether it be by poisoning him or inducing a heart attack in some other way. Also she basically stole Cinderella’s inheritance, used her for slave labor and verbally abused her if nothing else.
However, this story begins even darker for Ella, who lost her mother at a young age and moves from France to England with her father when her marries her stepmother. Narcissa is a beautiful woman who has two daughters, Lavinia and Magnolia and all three of them seem to hate Ella no matter what she does to try to get them to like her.
One day when they are out shopping, her father promises her they can take the train home because she has always wanted to ride the train. Narcissa and the girls complain that it is too dirty and they should take the car. But her father promised Ella. When they get down to the station two men with knives rob them and while her father protects Ella, he is stabbed and killed. Narcissa and her daughters blame Ella and make her pay for it from that day forward.
Ella’s one reprieve from the horrible home life is the animal rescue farm where she volunteers her time whenever she can. However, it is in danger of shutting down due to lack of funds. Ella keeps writing to the prince to see if he will support the charity but fears he is not getting her letters so she wants to attend the masquerade ball he is holding. Her wealthy friend Charlotte can’t attend so is giving Ella her ticket.
Ella ends up capturing the attention of a broody Norwegian prince who is next in line to the throne. His name is Thorsen (a.k.a. Thor) and he is known for being hated and a jerk. Ella feels that he tricked her at the ball and when he shows up at the animal rescue farm she doesn’t quite know what to think. But before she knows it, he has drugged her and kidnapped her to Norway.
From then on this is quite a fantastic hate to love story. Both of these characters are damaged in their own way, but while Thor is afraid to feel anything because of being burned too many times, Ella is the kind of caring person that he needs. But will he push her too far?
I really liked their dynamic and their backgrounds and the romance was hot. There were some BDSM elements and Dominant/submissive power exchange scenes as well as talk about childhood abuse, so if you have issues with any of that you may not want to read this book. But I really enjoyed this retelling of Cinderella. I liked this broody and dark prince. He had lost all hope of ever really being loved and was at a very low point in his life.
The original tale of Cinderella never really went into much about the prince. Other than the fact that he wanted to choose his own bride. In this one we get to see the prince as a real guy, flaws and all. Tall, Dark, Handsome, Broody, Jerk, Dominant, Possessive, Sexy, Kidnapper, and King. And did I forget well endowed?
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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You discover right away that this retelling of the Cinderella story was going to be much darker than the original. Not that the original wasn’t a bit dark in its own way. I mean we do know that the evil stepmother most likely killed the King, whether it be by poisoning him or inducing a heart attack in some other way. Also she basically stole Cinderella’s inheritance, used her for slave labor and verbally abused her if nothing else.
However, this story begins even darker for Ella, who lost her mother at a young age and moves from France to England with her father when her marries her stepmother. Narcissa is a beautiful woman who has two daughters, Lavinia and Magnolia and all three of them seem to hate Ella no matter what she does to try to get them to like her.
One day when they are out shopping, her father promises her they can take the train home because she has always wanted to ride the train. Narcissa and the girls complain that it is too dirty and they should take the car. But her father promised Ella. When they get down to the station two men with knives rob them and while her father protects Ella, he is stabbed and killed. Narcissa and her daughters blame Ella and make her pay for it from that day forward.
Ella’s one reprieve from the horrible home life is the animal rescue farm where she volunteers her time whenever she can. However, it is in danger of shutting down due to lack of funds. Ella keeps writing to the prince to see if he will support the charity but fears he is not getting her letters so she wants to attend the masquerade ball he is holding. Her wealthy friend Charlotte can’t attend so is giving Ella her ticket.
Ella ends up capturing the attention of a broody Norwegian prince who is next in line to the throne. His name is Thorsen (a.k.a. Thor) and he is known for being hated and a jerk. Ella feels that he tricked her at the ball and when he shows up at the animal rescue farm she doesn’t quite know what to think. But before she knows it, he has drugged her and kidnapped her to Norway.
From then on this is quite a fantastic hate to love story. Both of these characters are damaged in their own way, but while Thor is afraid to feel anything because of being burned too many times, Ella is the kind of caring person that he needs. But will he push her too far?
I really liked their dynamic and their backgrounds and the romance was hot. There were some BDSM elements and Dominant/submissive power exchange scenes as well as talk about childhood abuse, so if you have issues with any of that you may not want to read this book. But I really enjoyed this retelling of Cinderella. I liked this broody and dark prince. He had lost all hope of ever really being loved and was at a very low point in his life.
The original tale of Cinderella never really went into much about the prince. Other than the fact that he wanted to choose his own bride. In this one we get to see the prince as a real guy, flaws and all. Tall, Dark, Handsome, Broody, Jerk, Dominant, Possessive, Sexy, Kidnapper, and King. And did I forget well endowed?
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
May 10, 2020
I absolutely devoured this book! I am usually not big on fairytale themed books, unless it’s “Beauty and The Beast!” That particular fairytale is a weakness of mine! In this story, we get a tale that includes some parallels to Cinderella! I figured I would give it a chance because it was dark and had kidnapping involved!!! ( the strange things that lure me! Lol!) I sure am glad that I did! I literally couldn’t put it down!
Not only do we have Ella; who is our tortured heroine... but we have Thorson.. the Prince of Norway, and he is an extremely tormented character. This man has been traumatized since he was ten years old and he is miserable and mean.
When Ella and Thorson got together, their dynamic fascinated me. In the beginning they have a power exchange kind of relationship, and there is BDSM involved with the two of them. They are both broken individuals who find solace in each other. I loved how both of them evolve throughout this story... and how they slowly begin to trust each other and end up growing emotionally as a result!
Life isn’t all flowers considering this is a very dark book; there are evil step-sisters in this and a wicked stepmother. They are villains that I myself wanted to destroy. I really despised them and became quite involved in hating them!!!!
All in all, I loved this read! It seems like it is so hard to find books where I become 100% invested in them; but Stealing Cinderella just did it for me! If you love dark reads then definitely get this on your list!
Not only do we have Ella; who is our tortured heroine... but we have Thorson.. the Prince of Norway, and he is an extremely tormented character. This man has been traumatized since he was ten years old and he is miserable and mean.
When Ella and Thorson got together, their dynamic fascinated me. In the beginning they have a power exchange kind of relationship, and there is BDSM involved with the two of them. They are both broken individuals who find solace in each other. I loved how both of them evolve throughout this story... and how they slowly begin to trust each other and end up growing emotionally as a result!
Life isn’t all flowers considering this is a very dark book; there are evil step-sisters in this and a wicked stepmother. They are villains that I myself wanted to destroy. I really despised them and became quite involved in hating them!!!!
All in all, I loved this read! It seems like it is so hard to find books where I become 100% invested in them; but Stealing Cinderella just did it for me! If you love dark reads then definitely get this on your list!
April 1, 2020
4 STARS
Oh this book was all sorts of yummy. Full disclosure, I don't really bother to read blurbs when A. Zavarelli releases a new book. I already know I'll be reading this. But when I realized this was a modern-day retelling of Cinderella with a dark twist, I'm pretty sure my need for this book became rabid.
I love the inner workings of this woman's brain that allows her to come up with these captivating anti-heroes. And when said anti-heroes are in place of prince charming? Sign me the hell up!
Ella tragically lost her father in the worst way possible, only to be left behind with her cruel stepmother and stepsisters that live to make her life hell. Forced into an almost servitude existence with them, Ella will do anything to escape their ire. Admittedly, I was frustrated with her at first. I like my heroines with a backbone, and seeing Ella take everything these women threw at her was painful. Then I had to talk myself off the ledge and remind myself that this IS Cinderella we're talking about. And then I was even more pleasantly surprised to see Ella really grow into her own and develop a spine of steel.
Thorsen is the anti-thesis to the prince Charmings out there. The man is cold, aloof, and being the oldest twin brother, he's up to take the throne after his father. His childhood has been anything but sweet, and made the man he is today. His beloved mother is dying and his cruel father that he can barely tolerate is threatening him to marry for duty. Then a charity ball allows him to set eyes on a mysterious beauty, and his obsession begins. When he finally discovers her, he'll stop at nothing to have her. Even if he has to trap her, kidnap her, and keep her at his beck and call. GAH. DELICIOUS.
I loved how Zavarelli made this story her own while also keeping true to the bones of the Cinderella tale. It was sinfully sexy, deliciously gritty, and oh so dark and depraved. I devoured this book in one sitting. I loved Thor in all of his dark depravity. The man is sin personified and I couldn't get enough of his tortured self. I loved watching Ella give as good as she got even when the odds were stacked against her. I especially loved watching Thor fall deeper and deeper under Ella's spell, no matter how much he fought it.
If you like your fairy tales with a modern day dark twist, this book is simply not to be missed!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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Against my better judgment, I’m here. I’m giving him two months of my life to torment me, control me, own me.
Oh this book was all sorts of yummy. Full disclosure, I don't really bother to read blurbs when A. Zavarelli releases a new book. I already know I'll be reading this. But when I realized this was a modern-day retelling of Cinderella with a dark twist, I'm pretty sure my need for this book became rabid.
I love the inner workings of this woman's brain that allows her to come up with these captivating anti-heroes. And when said anti-heroes are in place of prince charming? Sign me the hell up!
Ella tragically lost her father in the worst way possible, only to be left behind with her cruel stepmother and stepsisters that live to make her life hell. Forced into an almost servitude existence with them, Ella will do anything to escape their ire. Admittedly, I was frustrated with her at first. I like my heroines with a backbone, and seeing Ella take everything these women threw at her was painful. Then I had to talk myself off the ledge and remind myself that this IS Cinderella we're talking about. And then I was even more pleasantly surprised to see Ella really grow into her own and develop a spine of steel.
Thorsen is the anti-thesis to the prince Charmings out there. The man is cold, aloof, and being the oldest twin brother, he's up to take the throne after his father. His childhood has been anything but sweet, and made the man he is today. His beloved mother is dying and his cruel father that he can barely tolerate is threatening him to marry for duty. Then a charity ball allows him to set eyes on a mysterious beauty, and his obsession begins. When he finally discovers her, he'll stop at nothing to have her. Even if he has to trap her, kidnap her, and keep her at his beck and call. GAH. DELICIOUS.
I loved how Zavarelli made this story her own while also keeping true to the bones of the Cinderella tale. It was sinfully sexy, deliciously gritty, and oh so dark and depraved. I devoured this book in one sitting. I loved Thor in all of his dark depravity. The man is sin personified and I couldn't get enough of his tortured self. I loved watching Ella give as good as she got even when the odds were stacked against her. I especially loved watching Thor fall deeper and deeper under Ella's spell, no matter how much he fought it.
If you like your fairy tales with a modern day dark twist, this book is simply not to be missed!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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March 30, 2020
A damaged hero
A broken heroine
A fancy charity ball
A case of mistaken identity
A kidnapping
Cinderella's story has never been this delicious!
Ella's life was the stuff of nightmares. She lost her mother as a little girl and her father was murdered by thugs right before her eyes. Destined to a life of servitude and abuse at the hands of her step-mother and step-sisters, she couldn't see a way out. Her only moments of peace and serenity were the times when she was among the animals at the shelter she volunteered at. However, the shelter is about to close down and her only solace will soon disappear. Desperate to keep those doors open, she takes the chance to attend a ball she isn't welcome at - her family made sure of that. It's a masquerade ball for charity and if she can just get the attention of a certain prince, maybe some of her dreams can come true. What happens when she catches the eye of the wrong prince?
Prince Thorsen, heir to the throne of Norway, had it all - good looks, money, prestige, etc. A childhood trauma continues to haunt him, leaving him unable to enjoy anything. He's completely shut down and has no intention of thawing. In his eyes, his remaining time is limited. He's only holding on for his dying mother. Nothing and no one can change his mind. He no longer cares. It all changes when a spitfire of a woman, who is unlike anyone he's ever met, challenges him and calls to a part of his soul he had thought long dead.
Stealing Cinderella was a familiar yet so intensely different story than the fairy tale I remember. It was somber and heart wrenching and left me clutching at my imaginary pearls right up to the end. It had a suspenseful edge that really fed the character and plot development, forcing me to choose sides and made it easy to fall in love with what was growing between Ella and Thorsen. At first it was an almost adversarial relationship with plenty of erotic elements that played on dominant and submissive roles. It changed into something that explored the walls built up from pain and heartbreak and the determination to break through. It then grew into something beautiful when Thorsen was given no choice but to face everything he was thinking and feeling for Ella. A little depraved, beautiful and a bit fanciful, with the perfect broken hero and damaged heroine, this story was well-written and a must-read for anyone who loves the darker side of romance.
A broken heroine
A fancy charity ball
A case of mistaken identity
A kidnapping
Cinderella's story has never been this delicious!
Ella's life was the stuff of nightmares. She lost her mother as a little girl and her father was murdered by thugs right before her eyes. Destined to a life of servitude and abuse at the hands of her step-mother and step-sisters, she couldn't see a way out. Her only moments of peace and serenity were the times when she was among the animals at the shelter she volunteered at. However, the shelter is about to close down and her only solace will soon disappear. Desperate to keep those doors open, she takes the chance to attend a ball she isn't welcome at - her family made sure of that. It's a masquerade ball for charity and if she can just get the attention of a certain prince, maybe some of her dreams can come true. What happens when she catches the eye of the wrong prince?
Her innocence speaks to me on a primal level, and I can't wait to destroy it.
Prince Thorsen, heir to the throne of Norway, had it all - good looks, money, prestige, etc. A childhood trauma continues to haunt him, leaving him unable to enjoy anything. He's completely shut down and has no intention of thawing. In his eyes, his remaining time is limited. He's only holding on for his dying mother. Nothing and no one can change his mind. He no longer cares. It all changes when a spitfire of a woman, who is unlike anyone he's ever met, challenges him and calls to a part of his soul he had thought long dead.
He isn't just inside of my body. He's in my mind. My blood. My beating heart. And when I look up into his beautiful, tormented eyes, I don't know how I'm ever going to survive him.
Stealing Cinderella was a familiar yet so intensely different story than the fairy tale I remember. It was somber and heart wrenching and left me clutching at my imaginary pearls right up to the end. It had a suspenseful edge that really fed the character and plot development, forcing me to choose sides and made it easy to fall in love with what was growing between Ella and Thorsen. At first it was an almost adversarial relationship with plenty of erotic elements that played on dominant and submissive roles. It changed into something that explored the walls built up from pain and heartbreak and the determination to break through. It then grew into something beautiful when Thorsen was given no choice but to face everything he was thinking and feeling for Ella. A little depraved, beautiful and a bit fanciful, with the perfect broken hero and damaged heroine, this story was well-written and a must-read for anyone who loves the darker side of romance.
April 6, 2020
3.5 STARS!
Trigger warnings:
All the makings of a fabulous story were present and accounted for in Stealing Cinderella. . . but it was just too short to really pull me in. It felt like reading at 1.5X the normal speed with the characters feeling emotions that weren't justified and making leaps of logic that were improbable.
However, if you don't mind that kind of thing, the writing was otherwise fabulous.
So overall a good read if you're not looking for emotional upheaval. Enjoy!
How can one man be so divided by darkness and light?If you're looking for a quick and easy dark read, look no further!
Trigger warnings:
All the makings of a fabulous story were present and accounted for in Stealing Cinderella. . . but it was just too short to really pull me in. It felt like reading at 1.5X the normal speed with the characters feeling emotions that weren't justified and making leaps of logic that were improbable.
However, if you don't mind that kind of thing, the writing was otherwise fabulous.
I wonder about her ability to take all the darkness I have to give.I was very close to rounding up, but there was a lot of
So overall a good read if you're not looking for emotional upheaval. Enjoy!
June 18, 2021
By far the most violent yet emotional retelling I’ve ever experienced!
Wow, princes start to lose their charm when you start thinking of them as like I don’t know ... human. Misogynistic assholes at that.
I appreciate that her bestie is her fairy godmother because that’s like every girls version of a fairy godmother.
There’s just something about men buckling women into cars. It’s something I’ve written about repeatedly, of course my men didn’t have nefarious reasons.
So ... he’s less of a Dom and more of a boy throwing temper tantrums. I guess he missed that day in D/s where you’re not supposed to go into this angry. Also consent. Also aftercare. I’m pretty sure he never went to class.
Obviously we knew he experienced some kind of past trauma I just didn’t foresee that. My god, that’s fucked up. Yet! That doesn’t make it ok to be a horrible human being. Just look at your friend Ella, she also experienced trauma, for years, less then a week ago and she not out there spreading hate all willy nilly.
She’s so desperate for love and affection that she’ll take it even if it’s with a side of abuse. And he’s just done, his plans after his mother dies and believing that’s his only option. It’s all just so very depressing.
Dude is fucked up! The fact that he knew she was afraid of fire and you pour hot wax on her because she got under your skin? Go fuck yourself prince Thorsten. I hope you get beat with broomsticks if not worse!
Even though he pissed me off more than I find acceptable I will say he grovels well. Did he really earn her forgiveness? Did he deserve her? I’m not sure, perhaps eventually. Especially after what he did in retribution to her stepmother and stepsisters.
The last few chapters were beautiful, it was a nice reprieve.
Wow, princes start to lose their charm when you start thinking of them as like I don’t know ... human. Misogynistic assholes at that.
I appreciate that her bestie is her fairy godmother because that’s like every girls version of a fairy godmother.
There’s just something about men buckling women into cars. It’s something I’ve written about repeatedly, of course my men didn’t have nefarious reasons.
So ... he’s less of a Dom and more of a boy throwing temper tantrums. I guess he missed that day in D/s where you’re not supposed to go into this angry. Also consent. Also aftercare. I’m pretty sure he never went to class.
Obviously we knew he experienced some kind of past trauma I just didn’t foresee that. My god, that’s fucked up. Yet! That doesn’t make it ok to be a horrible human being. Just look at your friend Ella, she also experienced trauma, for years, less then a week ago and she not out there spreading hate all willy nilly.
She’s so desperate for love and affection that she’ll take it even if it’s with a side of abuse. And he’s just done, his plans after his mother dies and believing that’s his only option. It’s all just so very depressing.
Dude is fucked up! The fact that he knew she was afraid of fire and you pour hot wax on her because she got under your skin? Go fuck yourself prince Thorsten. I hope you get beat with broomsticks if not worse!
Even though he pissed me off more than I find acceptable I will say he grovels well. Did he really earn her forgiveness? Did he deserve her? I’m not sure, perhaps eventually. Especially after what he did in retribution to her stepmother and stepsisters.
The last few chapters were beautiful, it was a nice reprieve.
April 6, 2020
A twisted fairy tale retelling of Cinderella.
I was waiting for this book wondering how A. Zavarelli would twist this story because she has excellent way of writing dark stories with grotesque way of dealing with the bad people. While Stealing Cinderella wasn't a top notch it certainly lived up to the Sinister Fairytale theme and I loved the way the story was twisted.
We know how the Cinderella story exists. Ella loses her father in a most tragic way, then her step-mother and step-sisters take over her life blaming her for the reason of her fathers death and poverty. Here Ella's step-family isn't only cruel, they are psychotic. Ella is a sweet and kind girl. No matter what she does she couldn't make her step-family like her, so in dealing with the harsh life she finds respite in an animal rescue farm, volunteering her time and money whenever she can. But the animal rescue farm is in need of fund and Ella fears the animals may be homeless. Ellas best friend Charlotte suggests she go to the charity masquerade ball (in which Charlotte was supposed to go but couldn't) and ask for the support of the prince.
Prince Thorsen is the heir of Norway. He is cold and broody and can barely tolerate his father. His only soft spot is his mother who was dying of cancer. Thorsen had a traumatic childhood which keeps hold of him even in adulthood. Throrsen is coerced to marry, to take his responsibility as the heir and he keeps dodging this until his father forces him to attend the charity masquerade ball to select a wife. There Thorsen meet Ella on a misunderstanding who challenges and questions his morals. He found his obsession and he stops nothing to have her.
In the original Cinderella story the step- family was the bad people, here the prince is also the bad person. Ella was drugged, kidnapped and held captive. There is no rape but there was force. Ella wasn't doormat, she does say no when he pushes her too far. There are some BDSM elements and abuses.
The story stays true to it's original story adding gritty and depravedness. There are lots of psychological issues with devious villians. It's was a great read.
I was waiting for this book wondering how A. Zavarelli would twist this story because she has excellent way of writing dark stories with grotesque way of dealing with the bad people. While Stealing Cinderella wasn't a top notch it certainly lived up to the Sinister Fairytale theme and I loved the way the story was twisted.
We know how the Cinderella story exists. Ella loses her father in a most tragic way, then her step-mother and step-sisters take over her life blaming her for the reason of her fathers death and poverty. Here Ella's step-family isn't only cruel, they are psychotic. Ella is a sweet and kind girl. No matter what she does she couldn't make her step-family like her, so in dealing with the harsh life she finds respite in an animal rescue farm, volunteering her time and money whenever she can. But the animal rescue farm is in need of fund and Ella fears the animals may be homeless. Ellas best friend Charlotte suggests she go to the charity masquerade ball (in which Charlotte was supposed to go but couldn't) and ask for the support of the prince.
Prince Thorsen is the heir of Norway. He is cold and broody and can barely tolerate his father. His only soft spot is his mother who was dying of cancer. Thorsen had a traumatic childhood which keeps hold of him even in adulthood. Throrsen is coerced to marry, to take his responsibility as the heir and he keeps dodging this until his father forces him to attend the charity masquerade ball to select a wife. There Thorsen meet Ella on a misunderstanding who challenges and questions his morals. He found his obsession and he stops nothing to have her.
In the original Cinderella story the step- family was the bad people, here the prince is also the bad person. Ella was drugged, kidnapped and held captive. There is no rape but there was force. Ella wasn't doormat, she does say no when he pushes her too far. There are some BDSM elements and abuses.
The story stays true to it's original story adding gritty and depravedness. There are lots of psychological issues with devious villians. It's was a great read.
April 18, 2020
3 ⭐
➸ Dark Romance
➸ bdsm, kidnapping, business deal, royals, Insta-lust
➸ first person, POV: Ella, Thor
➸ Cliffhanger? No.
➸ Standalone? Yes.
➸ HEA
➸ Trigger? Yes *
➸ Steam? High 🔥
Mild spoilers
Sorry, today I'm lazy.. this will be a short and quick review.
(*) First of all, this book need trigger warnings :
◉ child abuse and sexual assault
(on page)
◉ physical/emotional/psychological abuse
◉ non-consensual Dom/sub scenes
◉ drug use
◉ mental illness/ self-harm
Stealing Cinderella is a twisted, dark and BDSM-ish retelling of Cinderella fairy tale.
This book didn't blow my mind but it kept me entratained.. It's a solid dark read with an engaging plot, a deliciously devious villain and a great writing style.
Even though I'm not a fan of Insta-lust/love, I liked this couple: Ella and Thor have a good chemistry and I enjoyed their story.
My favorite thing about this book.?
Prince Thorsen aka Thor.
“You’re so pretty, min gudinne.” He massages my jaw beneath his fingers. “I’m going to wreck you.”
He's a great villain:
broken, charismatic, ruthless, possessive and grumpy
I really enjoyed the development of his characters and I warn you.. his story is heartbreaking ( a certain scene made my cry like a baby). I also loved his relationship with his twin and his mother.. Their bond is beautiful.
Or maybe I liked him so much because every time I read his name I thought about a certain God of Thunder
(Sorry I'm a perv. 🙈)
Here's why I didn't give more stars :
➸ I didn't particularly like Ella.
I didn't hate her but she was too submissive, forgiving and naïve for my taste. Plus, she had no sense of self-preservation and I couldn't stand her martyr complex. Don't get me wrong, she suits Cinderella's characters.. I just prefer a different type of heroine.
➸ I think you should know that this book contains some "unsafe" bdsm acts: some scenes are non-consensual and the heroine doesn't have a safe word. I get that this is a dark romance but Ella isn't a real captive and they have a business arrangement. Sometimes (I'm not talking about the whole book) Thor was a shitty Dom (and he claims to be an expert) and the D/s dynamic wasn't handled in the best and safe way..poor Ella, the wax scene was horrible.
Sorry, I like this genre and I'm picky.
➸ I'm not against mènage but in this particularly case , I disliked the mfm scene.
➸ Dark Romance
➸ bdsm, kidnapping, business deal, royals, Insta-lust
➸ first person, POV: Ella, Thor
➸ Cliffhanger? No.
➸ Standalone? Yes.
➸ HEA
➸ Trigger? Yes *
➸ Steam? High 🔥
Mild spoilers
Sorry, today I'm lazy.. this will be a short and quick review.
(*) First of all, this book need trigger warnings :
◉ child abuse and sexual assault
(on page)
◉ physical/emotional/psychological abuse
◉ non-consensual Dom/sub scenes
◉ drug use
◉ mental illness/ self-harm
Stealing Cinderella is a twisted, dark and BDSM-ish retelling of Cinderella fairy tale.
This book didn't blow my mind but it kept me entratained.. It's a solid dark read with an engaging plot, a deliciously devious villain and a great writing style.
Even though I'm not a fan of Insta-lust/love, I liked this couple: Ella and Thor have a good chemistry and I enjoyed their story.
My favorite thing about this book.?
Prince Thorsen aka Thor.
“You’re so pretty, min gudinne.” He massages my jaw beneath his fingers. “I’m going to wreck you.”
He's a great villain:
broken, charismatic, ruthless, possessive and grumpy
I really enjoyed the development of his characters and I warn you.. his story is heartbreaking ( a certain scene made my cry like a baby). I also loved his relationship with his twin and his mother.. Their bond is beautiful.
Or maybe I liked him so much because every time I read his name I thought about a certain God of Thunder
(Sorry I'm a perv. 🙈)
Here's why I didn't give more stars :
➸ I didn't particularly like Ella.
I didn't hate her but she was too submissive, forgiving and naïve for my taste. Plus, she had no sense of self-preservation and I couldn't stand her martyr complex. Don't get me wrong, she suits Cinderella's characters.. I just prefer a different type of heroine.
➸ I think you should know that this book contains some "unsafe" bdsm acts: some scenes are non-consensual and the heroine doesn't have a safe word. I get that this is a dark romance but Ella isn't a real captive and they have a business arrangement. Sometimes (I'm not talking about the whole book) Thor was a shitty Dom (and he claims to be an expert) and the D/s dynamic wasn't handled in the best and safe way..poor Ella, the wax scene was horrible.
Sorry, I like this genre and I'm picky.
➸ I'm not against mènage but in this particularly case , I disliked the mfm scene.
Shelved as 'the-nope-wagon'
April 9, 2020Blurb is unappealing.
Added the book in tbr because of those heels.
This one of the weirdest things I've ever done.
Edit: I've changed my mind after reading the preview. Thank you, next.
Added the book in tbr because of those heels.
This one of the weirdest things I've ever done.
Edit: I've changed my mind after reading the preview. Thank you, next.
April 5, 2020
So, uhm, this is "dark." It's "dub-con, "and "non-con," and "rough," and "hard," and... Have I left any synonym out? It's got kidnapping, and beating, and rape, and trauma, and torture, and child abuse (this, by the way, is a trigger warning as the scenes of child abuse are very disturbing), and murder, and...it's "dark." Wow! I'll also add that its excess takes it into the realm of melodrama.
If you love, "dark" -- if you love all the ways that authors dream up to violate the feminine body -- well, go for it, cause, you know, it's "dark" (and "cool" and "groovy," I guess?).
If "dark," however, isn't supposed to be synonymous with violence, but, rather, with radical, ground-breaking acts of subversion or destabilization, well then, this isn't "dark" at all; in fact, it's pretty "vanilla." Fundamentally, this book is yet another "edgy" sex & violence tale underpinned by a deeply conservative, heteronormative ideology in which a "bad" boy is by the unwavering love and forgiveness of the "good" girl. Stop me if you've NEVER heard this trope before. Ella is so pure, you see, so virginal (she actually is a virgin), so blonde, so white (or, at least, "ivory"), and recalls countless literary heroines in Jane Eyre, The Winter's Tale, and Othello, among others, who suffer so that the heroes in these stories can be redeemed. I'll also add that it's a trope as old as time (how's that for a fairytale reference?) in this genre as well, witness Cari Silverwood and Jennifer Bene's Mesmer or pretty much anything written by Jane Henry.
Is it worth it to have the woman's main purpose in these stories be to redeem the man? That, of course, depends on how invested you are in the man and the couple's relationship. For me, I like my female characters to have agency and not be doormats. While I realize that the original Cinderella was also pretty passive, the original Prince was not the product of an abusive upbringing so Ms. Zavarelli has taken dramatic license in some areas and not in others.
This is my long way of saying that this is "dark." If that's your thing, go for it since this is reasonably well-written and -edited and the H wasn't as awful to the h as I've seen in some books (though that particular bar is very low). I will say that this plot has unnecessary multiple endings (every time I thought it would end, something else happened to Ella: she really became the female version of Job).
For me, my response to it's "dark" is "Okay. And?"
2 1/2 stars. YMMV.
This is a losing battle, but I'm going to say it any way: if you like this book, that's absolutely your prerogative, but please don't call it BDSM. BDSM is a codified lifestyle practiced by real people in the real world and it has a few basic rules. Nothing that happens to Ella here abides by any of them.
If you love, "dark" -- if you love all the ways that authors dream up to violate the feminine body -- well, go for it, cause, you know, it's "dark" (and "cool" and "groovy," I guess?).
If "dark," however, isn't supposed to be synonymous with violence, but, rather, with radical, ground-breaking acts of subversion or destabilization, well then, this isn't "dark" at all; in fact, it's pretty "vanilla." Fundamentally, this book is yet another "edgy" sex & violence tale underpinned by a deeply conservative, heteronormative ideology in which a "bad" boy is by the unwavering love and forgiveness of the "good" girl. Stop me if you've NEVER heard this trope before. Ella is so pure, you see, so virginal (she actually is a virgin), so blonde, so white (or, at least, "ivory"), and recalls countless literary heroines in Jane Eyre, The Winter's Tale, and Othello, among others, who suffer so that the heroes in these stories can be redeemed. I'll also add that it's a trope as old as time (how's that for a fairytale reference?) in this genre as well, witness Cari Silverwood and Jennifer Bene's Mesmer or pretty much anything written by Jane Henry.
Is it worth it to have the woman's main purpose in these stories be to redeem the man? That, of course, depends on how invested you are in the man and the couple's relationship. For me, I like my female characters to have agency and not be doormats. While I realize that the original Cinderella was also pretty passive, the original Prince was not the product of an abusive upbringing so Ms. Zavarelli has taken dramatic license in some areas and not in others.
This is my long way of saying that this is "dark." If that's your thing, go for it since this is reasonably well-written and -edited and the H wasn't as awful to the h as I've seen in some books (though that particular bar is very low). I will say that this plot has unnecessary multiple endings (every time I thought it would end, something else happened to Ella: she really became the female version of Job).
For me, my response to it's "dark" is "Okay. And?"
2 1/2 stars. YMMV.
This is a losing battle, but I'm going to say it any way: if you like this book, that's absolutely your prerogative, but please don't call it BDSM. BDSM is a codified lifestyle practiced by real people in the real world and it has a few basic rules. Nothing that happens to Ella here abides by any of them.
March 30, 2020
GAH!! I have been so obsessed with A. Zavarelli and her amazing stories for years! I personally feel like she can write anything ranging from dark mafia to contemporary to anything under the sun. Her stories are solid gold! For that reason when I heard that she was writing a dark spin on the classic Cinderella fairytale I could not be happier. I loved her story Beast and knew that this author's immeasurable talent and incomparable storytelling ability would blow me away. Testament to this fact, I absolutely fell head over heels in love with Ella and Thorsen. They are one of my favorite couples from this author to date!!
This story was raw, edgy, sexy and emotional. I loved Thorsen and Ella's connection. They were the perfect couple, opposites in many ways but so in tune with one another despite their differences. She was the fire he needed to light up the cold and dark places in his heart. Furthermore, I loved how she brought out such deep emotions in the seemingly unemotional and stoic Prince. I also loved how captivated the dominant Prince was of the submissive Ella. Without realizing it, they both needed one another to fill the painful voids in their respective lives. This story was absolutely magnificent and I for one can not have enough of Zavarelli's words! Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
This story was raw, edgy, sexy and emotional. I loved Thorsen and Ella's connection. They were the perfect couple, opposites in many ways but so in tune with one another despite their differences. She was the fire he needed to light up the cold and dark places in his heart. Furthermore, I loved how she brought out such deep emotions in the seemingly unemotional and stoic Prince. I also loved how captivated the dominant Prince was of the submissive Ella. Without realizing it, they both needed one another to fill the painful voids in their respective lives. This story was absolutely magnificent and I for one can not have enough of Zavarelli's words! Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
April 1, 2020
This is a much darker loosely based contemporary retelling of the fairy-tale Cinderella.
Ella has lived with her abusive stepmother and awful stepsisters ever since her father's death,
She spends whatever times she can escaping to a local animal sanctuary.
To save this place she loves she attends a local Gala incognito to plead for funding and in a case of mistaken identity makes the acquittance of Thorsten the crown prince of Norway.
Fleeing the charity gala she accidentally leaves behind her shoe at the scene.
Thorsten is indeed an odd one morose cold and disinterested he doesn't feel things quite like others.
Ella's fate was sealed the instant she encountered her dark prince.
So this is so far from the sweet fairy tale you've come to expect this is dark and depraved with plenty of dubious consent.
This descends into the shadows stripping both Ella and Thorsten back to the bone and they will both learn the very cores of each other the more time they are together.
Both Ella and Thor have things in their pasts that are still affecting there now and their upcoming futures, their actual brokenness is kind of like there glue.
Here we get to watch them put each other back together piece by individual piece and the journey travelled was definitely always going to be unstable and somewhat inflexible to observe.
This was well written with wicked corruption and unapologetic shameless degeneration.
It was ever so dirty and deliciously debased but it was also equally impassioned and certainly unfeigned, the emotion here felt real and authentic despite this being so far from a conventional start.
By the finish, I was totally in love with both Thor and Ella as a couple and I also liked the way this stayed true to there natures none of that ridiculous rise above it stuff.
I really appreciated this sinister alternate take on the whole Cinderella fable loved it.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of Stealing Cinderella.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
March 28, 2020
Dark and delicious is Ashleigh's version of this fairytale, which gives a fair chance to the Prince Charming's POV. There's the brooding and broken alpha, who needs power and control. The dominant in him sees the submissive in his custom fit Cinderella and from thereon, ashleigh lets her imagination fly!
Ella is the proverbial Daddy's Girl, a pampered and loved child. Unfortunately now she's stuck with her stepmother, aptly named Narcissa. She's at mercy of taunts and jibes of her stepsisters- Lavinia & Magnolia.
This triangulation of cruelty fires at her from all sides, till she seeks refuge in the Animal Rescue farm with her best friend.
One meeting and a fleeting touch in the masked ball and Prince Thoren of Norway is smitten, or shall we say he wants HER smitten and knelt.🙇♀️
This is a major turning point and Ashleigh writes in her own indomitable dark style.
There's the perfect bdsm power exchange, carnality is unfurled and proudly displayed, highly charged sexual scenes form the backdrop of this fairy tale only suitable for adults!😜
Hanging over their heads is dark clouds of past abuse, mental health illnesses and betrayals which makes them kindred spirits. His lack of feelings and hers overflowing with patience & compassion are a match made in heaven
Their yin-yang personalities fit perfectly well and in that sense, it's a PERFECT FAIRYTALE.
I loved the twisted end where Ashleigh brings the chickens home to roost and HOW!!!
The writing starts with a normal retelling and then goes underground into the dark tunnel, so it was a delightful journey for me and for other dark-ish lovers.
Ashleigh is an accomplished writer and in her mighty pen lies the power to make you love everything she chooses to write. Timeless saga takes you behind the dark curtains, it titillates and touches your heart, bringing you to Her own kind of HEA.
4.5 stars for Just Desserts
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Ella is the proverbial Daddy's Girl, a pampered and loved child. Unfortunately now she's stuck with her stepmother, aptly named Narcissa. She's at mercy of taunts and jibes of her stepsisters- Lavinia & Magnolia.
This triangulation of cruelty fires at her from all sides, till she seeks refuge in the Animal Rescue farm with her best friend.
One meeting and a fleeting touch in the masked ball and Prince Thoren of Norway is smitten, or shall we say he wants HER smitten and knelt.🙇♀️
This is a major turning point and Ashleigh writes in her own indomitable dark style.
There's the perfect bdsm power exchange, carnality is unfurled and proudly displayed, highly charged sexual scenes form the backdrop of this fairy tale only suitable for adults!😜
Hanging over their heads is dark clouds of past abuse, mental health illnesses and betrayals which makes them kindred spirits. His lack of feelings and hers overflowing with patience & compassion are a match made in heaven
Their yin-yang personalities fit perfectly well and in that sense, it's a PERFECT FAIRYTALE.
I loved the twisted end where Ashleigh brings the chickens home to roost and HOW!!!
The writing starts with a normal retelling and then goes underground into the dark tunnel, so it was a delightful journey for me and for other dark-ish lovers.
Ashleigh is an accomplished writer and in her mighty pen lies the power to make you love everything she chooses to write. Timeless saga takes you behind the dark curtains, it titillates and touches your heart, bringing you to Her own kind of HEA.
4.5 stars for Just Desserts
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April 3, 2020
4 ❤️🖤🖤❤️ 🎭 🇫🇷 👠 👑 🇬🇧 🔥 🌟🌟🌟🌟s❣️
A modern and raw retelling fairy tale where the prince in a dark shining armor accidentally met his (cinder)Ella.
With great characters - tormented and damaged, seeking for love and a very well developed plot - sinful and twisted, I was hooked throughout the story.
Thorsen and Ella’s story was dark, angsty, intriguing, yet very emotional.
The epilogue of their HEA was wonderful ❣️
A modern and raw retelling fairy tale where the prince in a dark shining armor accidentally met his (cinder)Ella.
With great characters - tormented and damaged, seeking for love and a very well developed plot - sinful and twisted, I was hooked throughout the story.
Thorsen and Ella’s story was dark, angsty, intriguing, yet very emotional.
The epilogue of their HEA was wonderful ❣️
May 15, 2020
3 Stars!
Overall this was a good book. I love how it's a dark and twisted version of Cinderella but still keeps the theme of the fairytale, even though Cinderella is one of my lesser liked princesses. At first I was hesitant because of that, but as soon as the darkness was creeping into the story and the characters, I liked it a lot more.
The first half was good, maybe focused a little too much on sex, but luckily the sex was hot. The second half was way better and more emotional than I thought it would be, especially with the Hero's past, and it definitely brought more depth to the story. Which then brings me to me loving the hero! I loved his darker side, and then the sweeter side the heroine brings out of him, and you know he just wants to be loved. And when he gets that love, he turns into a big mush ball and I lived for it.
One thing I really liked about this book was the twisted ending. I love revenge, and Ashleigh did a great job of mixing Cinderella's ending and justice being served. Retribution always feels good in my opinion. Or at least in books, some of this stuff definitely wouldn't fly in real life, so it's always great to have a satisfying end in a story where, at least, most of the characters either get what they deserved, or get revenge (my fave).
Overall, this was a good book, and with how much I dislike this fairytale, Ashleigh did a great job of incorporating elements to keep me interested and enjoying it. There were some stuff that isn't to my taste that I won't spoil, just my preferences. I would definitely recommend this to those that love those dark and sexy fairy tales, and I can't wait for more of Ashleigh's works.
*ARC provided in exchange for a honest review*
Overall this was a good book. I love how it's a dark and twisted version of Cinderella but still keeps the theme of the fairytale, even though Cinderella is one of my lesser liked princesses. At first I was hesitant because of that, but as soon as the darkness was creeping into the story and the characters, I liked it a lot more.
The first half was good, maybe focused a little too much on sex, but luckily the sex was hot. The second half was way better and more emotional than I thought it would be, especially with the Hero's past, and it definitely brought more depth to the story. Which then brings me to me loving the hero! I loved his darker side, and then the sweeter side the heroine brings out of him, and you know he just wants to be loved. And when he gets that love, he turns into a big mush ball and I lived for it.
One thing I really liked about this book was the twisted ending. I love revenge, and Ashleigh did a great job of mixing Cinderella's ending and justice being served. Retribution always feels good in my opinion. Or at least in books, some of this stuff definitely wouldn't fly in real life, so it's always great to have a satisfying end in a story where, at least, most of the characters either get what they deserved, or get revenge (my fave).
Overall, this was a good book, and with how much I dislike this fairytale, Ashleigh did a great job of incorporating elements to keep me interested and enjoying it. There were some stuff that isn't to my taste that I won't spoil, just my preferences. I would definitely recommend this to those that love those dark and sexy fairy tales, and I can't wait for more of Ashleigh's works.
*ARC provided in exchange for a honest review*
April 6, 2020
This book idk how I feel like i didnt hate it or like it. It was just meh okay-ish. . i knew it would be dark.. but i wish the author would have atleast tagged some warning like dark stuff be warned or something? Also Cinderella wasnt my favorite princess :( also i listed the Triggers below if you wanna see.
i wish Ella stood up for herself more or fought harder she did at first but then didnt.. she was wayyyyy to forgiving way to do what you want with me. I just wish she fought alittle back... also i don't mind spanking and stuff but when someone says i wanna beat you black and blue.. it makes me think more abuse then sexy times. Also i didnt see the point of the almost sharing with the brother, my other neg was him having to take the step sister on dates due to his asshole father so it wasnt realllllly cheating but? Maybe depends how you see it. Now beside that i did enjoy some of the story i felt so bad for both Ella and Thorne past it broke my heart. And Ella love for animals ❤
Angst, Ow drama, sorta cheating?, Drama, sexy times, virgin gal and no manwhore? But he did say about past relationships.
Recommend- maybe
Cover-⭐⭐⭐
Sorta instalove/lust
Bdsmish
Non-con turned consent
Anal play/sex
Sexual assault
Mental illness
Tiny MFM
Unsafe dom/sub
Abuse/child abuse
Drugged/drugs
Mentions of suicide
Not safe? In bdsm
Hea
Epilogue
i wish Ella stood up for herself more or fought harder she did at first but then didnt.. she was wayyyyy to forgiving way to do what you want with me. I just wish she fought alittle back... also i don't mind spanking and stuff but when someone says i wanna beat you black and blue.. it makes me think more abuse then sexy times. Also i didnt see the point of the almost sharing with the brother, my other neg was him having to take the step sister on dates due to his asshole father so it wasnt realllllly cheating but? Maybe depends how you see it. Now beside that i did enjoy some of the story i felt so bad for both Ella and Thorne past it broke my heart. And Ella love for animals ❤
Angst, Ow drama, sorta cheating?, Drama, sexy times, virgin gal and no manwhore? But he did say about past relationships.
Recommend- maybe
Cover-⭐⭐⭐
Sorta instalove/lust
Bdsmish
Non-con turned consent
Anal play/sex
Sexual assault
Mental illness
Tiny MFM
Unsafe dom/sub
Abuse/child abuse
Drugged/drugs
Mentions of suicide
Not safe? In bdsm
Hea
Epilogue
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2020
4.5 stars
First of all, let's just say that this book exceeded every expectation that I had.
I have this jinx that the book I'm actually excited about, 'most of the time' turns out to be mediocre or so bad that I have to tag it as dnf.
My heart is literally feeling lighter, now that the jinx is broken. So, having that out of the way, I can freely gush about how much I loved this!
There have been many re-tellings of the Disney Fairytale over the years, but until now, none had ever been this perfect for me!
Of all the versions that we're aware of, a few things are common - Ella being tortured by her stepmother and stepsisters, her getting renamed as Cinderella due to some unfortunate event with the fireplace, her going to the ball, dancing with the Prince, clock strikes at midnight, her running off, leaving behind her slipper. Prince searching for the mysterious beauty, finally finding her and slipping the shoe in her foot.
Did all these things happen in here? Yes, They did!
But instead of riding off in the sunset together towards with a guaranteed HEA, Prince Charming here, drugs our Cinderella and kidnaps her, taking her to his realm forcefully. He then manipulates her into staying and being his personal toy, taking everything sadistic thing he can dish out.
Thorsen Lykken aka Thor is the crown prince of Norway. But unlike his Disney Counterpart, he isn't charming at all. He is highly disliked by his people because of his cold and broody nature. Unbestknown to them, is the fact that he is a tortured soul carrying the heavy burden of his past.
When he meets Ella for the first time, he is fascinated by the passionate speech she makes about saving an animal sanctuary. So intrigued he was that he decided to have her all for himself.
What he didn't know that under all her kindness, there was a fractured soul too!
Even as they dance around the dynamics of their relationship, life doesn't stop throwing curveballs at them.
There is a violent (and asshole) King, a scheming stepmother, a vindictive stepsister hell bent on causing chaos.
But also, there is a loving mother, a sweet as candy brother and a fairy godmother (well, not really, but it rhyymed!)
Those who haven't read it yet... What the hell are you waiting for? Dig right in!!!
Blog|Blogspot
First of all, let's just say that this book exceeded every expectation that I had.
I have this jinx that the book I'm actually excited about, 'most of the time' turns out to be mediocre or so bad that I have to tag it as dnf.
My heart is literally feeling lighter, now that the jinx is broken. So, having that out of the way, I can freely gush about how much I loved this!
There have been many re-tellings of the Disney Fairytale over the years, but until now, none had ever been this perfect for me!
Of all the versions that we're aware of, a few things are common - Ella being tortured by her stepmother and stepsisters, her getting renamed as Cinderella due to some unfortunate event with the fireplace, her going to the ball, dancing with the Prince, clock strikes at midnight, her running off, leaving behind her slipper. Prince searching for the mysterious beauty, finally finding her and slipping the shoe in her foot.
Did all these things happen in here? Yes, They did!
But instead of riding off in the sunset together towards with a guaranteed HEA, Prince Charming here, drugs our Cinderella and kidnaps her, taking her to his realm forcefully. He then manipulates her into staying and being his personal toy, taking everything sadistic thing he can dish out.
Thorsen Lykken aka Thor is the crown prince of Norway. But unlike his Disney Counterpart, he isn't charming at all. He is highly disliked by his people because of his cold and broody nature. Unbestknown to them, is the fact that he is a tortured soul carrying the heavy burden of his past.
When he meets Ella for the first time, he is fascinated by the passionate speech she makes about saving an animal sanctuary. So intrigued he was that he decided to have her all for himself.
What he didn't know that under all her kindness, there was a fractured soul too!
Even as they dance around the dynamics of their relationship, life doesn't stop throwing curveballs at them.
There is a violent (and asshole) King, a scheming stepmother, a vindictive stepsister hell bent on causing chaos.
But also, there is a loving mother, a sweet as candy brother and a fairy godmother (well, not really, but it rhyymed!)
Those who haven't read it yet... What the hell are you waiting for? Dig right in!!!
Blog|Blogspot
April 1, 2020
I'd started to have my doubts about this series, but Stealing Cinderella has certainly turned the tides favourably.
The book has a nice swirl of darkness to it, and is certainly fits the billing of 'Sinister' perfectly. Ella and Thor's story is set in modern times, which made a few elements at the beginning seem a little far fetched, and I did find myself having to let several things 'go' at the beginning, hence the loss of half a star. However I can appreciate that not only were they necessary for the story, they strongly echoed the fairy tale on which this book is based. Though this prince is very more devillish than he is charming.
Stealing Cinderella has an excellent plot, well thought through, nicely paced and with some unexpected twists along the way. There are possible triggers in the book, more alluded to than truly experienced, though there is one brief flashback scene that occurs. Ella and Thor have both experienced abuse and neglect, though it has shaped them into very different characters.
Ella is very much the sweet natured, caring and loving Cinderella of the fairytale. Thor, however, has a much darker, bleaker nature and is very much an antihero - to the point that it took me quite a while to warm to him. However as we, and Ella, get to know the true man, as his secrets and hurts are gradually revealed and as he warms towards her, so I found myself warming towards him.
Whilst the Sinister Fairy Tales series has been very hit and miss for me, and mainly miss if I'm being brutally honest, this book has made the whole experience worthwhile. Ashleigh Zavarelli took the brief and very much stuck to it, producing a story that closely paralleled the original on which it is based. At the same time she modernised the tale, threw in a good dose of all things dark, add a generous helping of steam to create a really great story.
This is one Sinister Fairy Tale I am more than happy to recommend.
The book has a nice swirl of darkness to it, and is certainly fits the billing of 'Sinister' perfectly. Ella and Thor's story is set in modern times, which made a few elements at the beginning seem a little far fetched, and I did find myself having to let several things 'go' at the beginning, hence the loss of half a star. However I can appreciate that not only were they necessary for the story, they strongly echoed the fairy tale on which this book is based. Though this prince is very more devillish than he is charming.
Stealing Cinderella has an excellent plot, well thought through, nicely paced and with some unexpected twists along the way. There are possible triggers in the book, more alluded to than truly experienced, though there is one brief flashback scene that occurs. Ella and Thor have both experienced abuse and neglect, though it has shaped them into very different characters.
Ella is very much the sweet natured, caring and loving Cinderella of the fairytale. Thor, however, has a much darker, bleaker nature and is very much an antihero - to the point that it took me quite a while to warm to him. However as we, and Ella, get to know the true man, as his secrets and hurts are gradually revealed and as he warms towards her, so I found myself warming towards him.
Whilst the Sinister Fairy Tales series has been very hit and miss for me, and mainly miss if I'm being brutally honest, this book has made the whole experience worthwhile. Ashleigh Zavarelli took the brief and very much stuck to it, producing a story that closely paralleled the original on which it is based. At the same time she modernised the tale, threw in a good dose of all things dark, add a generous helping of steam to create a really great story.
This is one Sinister Fairy Tale I am more than happy to recommend.
April 8, 2020
Dark ✔️
Broken and twisted MCs ✔️
Trainwreck extravagant drama ✔️
Comeuppance ✔️✔️✔️
Broken and twisted MCs ✔️
Trainwreck extravagant drama ✔️
Comeuppance ✔️✔️✔️
April 7, 2020
Ashleigh is a favorite author for me, she never disappoints and always brings some new and fresh to her stories. Stealing Cinderella is another great addition to her book repertoire.
A dark retelling of Cinderella with a modern-day twist. Well written and deeply engaging I devoured this book front to back. There is something special about the easy Ashleigh tells a story that hooks me in every damn time.
Although some of the names of some of the characters didn't flow easily off the tongue, the story was deliciously dark and the characters each uniquely evolved.
Ella (Cinderella) is submissive, passive and compassionate. Ahe has a big heart for saving animals and is very devoted to her cause.
Thorsen (Thor) Is the broody Norwegian prince, next in line to be King. Dark and damaged he battles with his feelings towards Ella. This is a love-hate relationship at it's best ( and sexiest)
This was another fantastic addition to the Sinister Fairytales Collection
A dark retelling of Cinderella with a modern-day twist. Well written and deeply engaging I devoured this book front to back. There is something special about the easy Ashleigh tells a story that hooks me in every damn time.
Although some of the names of some of the characters didn't flow easily off the tongue, the story was deliciously dark and the characters each uniquely evolved.
Ella (Cinderella) is submissive, passive and compassionate. Ahe has a big heart for saving animals and is very devoted to her cause.
Thorsen (Thor) Is the broody Norwegian prince, next in line to be King. Dark and damaged he battles with his feelings towards Ella. This is a love-hate relationship at it's best ( and sexiest)
This was another fantastic addition to the Sinister Fairytales Collection
November 18, 2020
Audiobook: Narrators - Kelsey Navarro & James Anderson Foster
This was a very interesting narration as both the hero and heroine have strong accents. Initially, I struggled with it because the accent was off a bit, too strong and not really consistent. However, I slowed the speed down, and really focused on what was being said and suddenly I was completely enthralled with this story. I soon cranked the speed back up and it was as if I had been listening to these narrators and their performed accents forever. This ended up being a very enjoyable audio.
Stealing Cinderella was a darkly compelling story for me. It was raw and gritty and skirted on the edges of consent which heightened my anticipation of what was going to happen and how these characters were going to act and in turn, react. I’ve read dark romance before and yet this time I found myself holding my breath, wondering if this hero was going to cross the line. I don’t want to spoil it for you, but I will say that I loved all the angst and turmoil this book stirred in me. And in the end I absolutely LOVED this hero and all his brokenness.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
This was a very interesting narration as both the hero and heroine have strong accents. Initially, I struggled with it because the accent was off a bit, too strong and not really consistent. However, I slowed the speed down, and really focused on what was being said and suddenly I was completely enthralled with this story. I soon cranked the speed back up and it was as if I had been listening to these narrators and their performed accents forever. This ended up being a very enjoyable audio.
Stealing Cinderella was a darkly compelling story for me. It was raw and gritty and skirted on the edges of consent which heightened my anticipation of what was going to happen and how these characters were going to act and in turn, react. I’ve read dark romance before and yet this time I found myself holding my breath, wondering if this hero was going to cross the line. I don’t want to spoil it for you, but I will say that I loved all the angst and turmoil this book stirred in me. And in the end I absolutely LOVED this hero and all his brokenness.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
April 10, 2020
“You have a fire in you, don’t you?” I straddle her body and pinch her face in my fingers. “But you should know you’re only making my cock harder when you fight.”
.
.
THIS FUUUUCKING BOOK! This is the kind of book I desperately needed! I couldn't put this story down.
If you like darkish romances, mega alpha asshole dirty talking book boyfriends who like to bring the pain and stories that CONSUME you, then you should DEFINITELY meet this guy! I could NOT get enough of this man! I have so many dirty sexy highlights I had a HARD time deciding what to post! I'm so fuuuucking in LOVE with him! ALSO, let's just say that there is a scene with the Thorsen, Ella and his twin brother...😏🤤 MFM
...........
#MUSTHaveBookBoyfriend #MustHaveThorsen #ComeSitOnYourThrone 😏 #SerenaFave #TopRead #DarkRomance #AHoleAlert #ThrowYourKindleRead #JizzYourPantsRepeatedly
...........
STEALING CINDERELLA by A. Zavarelli is LIVE!
US 🇺🇸https://amzn.to/3c23k70
CA 🇨🇦 https://amzn.to/2XhnwxS
UK 🇬🇧 https://amzn.to/3aUAXYC
AU 🇦🇺 https://amzn.to/2V8G0Ol
June 5, 2021
3⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: Dark Romance (Cinderella Retelling)
Story: 3/5
Enjoyment: 3/5
Dark Level: 2.5/5
Sexual Level: OK-GOOD
Triggers: Yes
Violence: Yes
Male: Scared
Series: N/A
Pages: 324
Audio: Ok- FAIR (female/male)
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
I have mix emotions about this story. I think the author told the story well, I just didn’t like the execution for certain scenes. I think we got most of the Cinderella story in the first 8 to 9 chapters and after that it was pure darkness. This was emotionally daunting with Ella’s character. I don’t think there was ever a moment of enjoyment in a section of this book for her until the end and that’s my problem a bit. She never fought back, even to give Thorsen a little back talk. It was like a dark gloomy cloud was over her and Thorsen 24/7. Of course, there were also parts of the book I like, as not all was bad for me.
Chapters 1 to 8, kept the same tempo establishing each character and getting to know them. Then Chapter 9,10 & 11, Mr. Hyde came out to play and Dr. Jekyll wasn’t to be heard from again. It was like, whelp, damn Thorsen. Once the door to his past was open, it makes sense why he is the way he is.
Can’t say I really saw anyone evolve much, maybe Ella a little. It’s the broken fixing the broken. Even the climax where there is a big misunderstanding, it just made no sense, how can she be deceiving Thorsen WHEN HE IS THE ONE WHO SEARCHED FOR HER AND KIDNAPPED HER!? This is why I mentioned I didn’t like the way some scenes were executed. I’m never one to say a story isn’t believable, but the proposition seemed too simple. Maybe because for me, it didn’t seem so outrageous and it was just so simple. But then again, those animals were her safe place so I guess it would make sense for Ella.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY:
I found the sex scenes to be ok. I didn’t feel moist (TMI) sorry. I thought it could have been more. I’m just not sure why I wasn’t fully turned on or connecting.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
The evil step sisters and mother, they don’t even deserve a sentence.
Thorsen’s twin brother, likable.
Thorsen’s father - pathetic and poor excuse of a father in Thorsen’s younger years.
OVERALL
It will definitely not be for everyone. I like some parts and others were meh. For me personally, because I am a fan of dark contents, it wasn’t the content, again; it was the way some scenes were executed.
✰✰TRIGGERS: drugged to kidnap, force intimacy, non con, physical abuse child/adult and BDSM adjacent (not the standard BDSM)
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
Style: Dark Romance (Cinderella Retelling)
Story: 3/5
Enjoyment: 3/5
Dark Level: 2.5/5
Sexual Level: OK-GOOD
Triggers: Yes
Violence: Yes
Male: Scared
Series: N/A
Pages: 324
Audio: Ok- FAIR (female/male)
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
I have mix emotions about this story. I think the author told the story well, I just didn’t like the execution for certain scenes. I think we got most of the Cinderella story in the first 8 to 9 chapters and after that it was pure darkness. This was emotionally daunting with Ella’s character. I don’t think there was ever a moment of enjoyment in a section of this book for her until the end and that’s my problem a bit. She never fought back, even to give Thorsen a little back talk. It was like a dark gloomy cloud was over her and Thorsen 24/7. Of course, there were also parts of the book I like, as not all was bad for me.
Chapters 1 to 8, kept the same tempo establishing each character and getting to know them. Then Chapter 9,10 & 11, Mr. Hyde came out to play and Dr. Jekyll wasn’t to be heard from again. It was like, whelp, damn Thorsen. Once the door to his past was open, it makes sense why he is the way he is.
Can’t say I really saw anyone evolve much, maybe Ella a little. It’s the broken fixing the broken. Even the climax where there is a big misunderstanding, it just made no sense, how can she be deceiving Thorsen WHEN HE IS THE ONE WHO SEARCHED FOR HER AND KIDNAPPED HER!? This is why I mentioned I didn’t like the way some scenes were executed. I’m never one to say a story isn’t believable, but the proposition seemed too simple. Maybe because for me, it didn’t seem so outrageous and it was just so simple. But then again, those animals were her safe place so I guess it would make sense for Ella.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY:
I found the sex scenes to be ok. I didn’t feel moist (TMI) sorry. I thought it could have been more. I’m just not sure why I wasn’t fully turned on or connecting.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
The evil step sisters and mother, they don’t even deserve a sentence.
Thorsen’s twin brother, likable.
Thorsen’s father - pathetic and poor excuse of a father in Thorsen’s younger years.
OVERALL
It will definitely not be for everyone. I like some parts and others were meh. For me personally, because I am a fan of dark contents, it wasn’t the content, again; it was the way some scenes were executed.
✰✰TRIGGERS: drugged to kidnap, force intimacy, non con, physical abuse child/adult and BDSM adjacent (not the standard BDSM)
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
April 21, 2020
4 stars
Once upon a time, there was a fire breather and a God of Thunder. And while the story got my attention, I have to confess there was a part that made me almost stop reading it. My feminist heart couldn't handle it. You know, this was my first time reading a book by this author and I had no idea how she could make me overpassed this part of the book (normally I would dnf) and instead of not enjoying, I finished it with a smile on my face and... yes, I cried a lil bit. That's how good the writing and the story was.
STEALING CINDERELLA is great! It's captivating. It's hot (even when it shouldn't be). Like I said even when I stumbled in a part my heart felt hard to agreed, I JUST COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN. And thank God I kept reading. Although this is based on Cinderella, the author build a twisted and dark story that made me hate Ella's stepsisters like I never did before, you can't even imagine how much Ella suffered. Different from the beginning, I finish loving more that I thought, instead. I highly recommend it for dark romance hearts.
*I received an ARC of this book.
__
4 estrelas
Era uma vez um menina cheia de fogo e um deus do trovão. E, enquanto a história havia chamado minha atenção, tenho que confessar que houve uma parte que quase me fez parar de lê-la. Meu coração feminista não aguentou. Sabe, essa foi a primeira vez que li um livro dessa autora e eu não tinha ideia de como ela poderia me fazer superar essa parte do livro (normalmente eu largaria) e, em vez de não gostar, terminei com um sorriso na minha cara e... sim, eu soltei umas lágrimas. Pra você ver o tanto que a escrita e a história foram boas.
STEALING CINDERELLA é ótimo! É cativante. É quente (mesmo quando não deveria ser). Como eu disse, mesmo quando eu agarrei em uma parte que meu coração estava com dificuldade em concordar, NÃO CONSEGUI LARGAR. E graças a Deus eu continuei lendo. Embora isso seja baseado na Cinderela, a autora constrói uma história sombria e distorcida que me fez odiar as irmãs adotivas da Ella como nunca odiei antes, você nem imagina o quanto a Ella sofreu. Diferente do início da leitura, terminei de amando mais do que pensei. Recomendo para amantes de romance mais sombrio.
* Recebi um ARC desse livro.
----------------------
Pick a Book
Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / BookBub
pb.responde@gmail.com
Once upon a time, there was a fire breather and a God of Thunder. And while the story got my attention, I have to confess there was a part that made me almost stop reading it. My feminist heart couldn't handle it. You know, this was my first time reading a book by this author and I had no idea how she could make me overpassed this part of the book (normally I would dnf) and instead of not enjoying, I finished it with a smile on my face and... yes, I cried a lil bit. That's how good the writing and the story was.
STEALING CINDERELLA is great! It's captivating. It's hot (even when it shouldn't be). Like I said even when I stumbled in a part my heart felt hard to agreed, I JUST COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN. And thank God I kept reading. Although this is based on Cinderella, the author build a twisted and dark story that made me hate Ella's stepsisters like I never did before, you can't even imagine how much Ella suffered. Different from the beginning, I finish loving more that I thought, instead. I highly recommend it for dark romance hearts.
*I received an ARC of this book.
__
4 estrelas
Era uma vez um menina cheia de fogo e um deus do trovão. E, enquanto a história havia chamado minha atenção, tenho que confessar que houve uma parte que quase me fez parar de lê-la. Meu coração feminista não aguentou. Sabe, essa foi a primeira vez que li um livro dessa autora e eu não tinha ideia de como ela poderia me fazer superar essa parte do livro (normalmente eu largaria) e, em vez de não gostar, terminei com um sorriso na minha cara e... sim, eu soltei umas lágrimas. Pra você ver o tanto que a escrita e a história foram boas.
STEALING CINDERELLA é ótimo! É cativante. É quente (mesmo quando não deveria ser). Como eu disse, mesmo quando eu agarrei em uma parte que meu coração estava com dificuldade em concordar, NÃO CONSEGUI LARGAR. E graças a Deus eu continuei lendo. Embora isso seja baseado na Cinderela, a autora constrói uma história sombria e distorcida que me fez odiar as irmãs adotivas da Ella como nunca odiei antes, você nem imagina o quanto a Ella sofreu. Diferente do início da leitura, terminei de amando mais do que pensei. Recomendo para amantes de romance mais sombrio.
* Recebi um ARC desse livro.
----------------------
Pick a Book
Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / BookBub
pb.responde@gmail.com
February 1, 2022
4.75 stars
A deliciously dark retelling of Cinderella fairy tale...
I can't tell you how much i loved It !!! 🖤🖤
Life had been a bitch with Ella and Thorsen.
Ella confronts It with kindness and light, Thorsen falls more and more into darkness.
Their past break my heart *sobbing*
But despite all the difficulties (read as all those assholes who got in their way, but luckily they had the end they deserved 😤🤬) they managed to find the love,affection, and peace they needed each in the arms of other 🖤🖤🖤
A deliciously dark retelling of Cinderella fairy tale...
I can't tell you how much i loved It !!! 🖤🖤
Life had been a bitch with Ella and Thorsen.
Ella confronts It with kindness and light, Thorsen falls more and more into darkness.
Their past break my heart *sobbing*
But despite all the difficulties (read as all those assholes who got in their way, but luckily they had the end they deserved 😤🤬) they managed to find the love,affection, and peace they needed each in the arms of other 🖤🖤🖤
February 15, 2022
Recensione in Anteprima sulla mia pagina Bookstagram
https://www.instagram.com/p/CZ_fjbgM_...
Si tratta di una storia molto particolare, diversa dalle solite letture, è una rivisitazione della classica fiaba di Cenerentola ma in chiave dark, del genere erotic romance
Le rievocazioni sono presenti ma l’autrice le ha sapute sviluppare e proporre in un modo alquanto originale, nel suo stile intrigante e coinvolgente.
Il protagonista l’autrice lo dipinge come un uomo imperfetto, arrogante, minaccioso e pericolosamente rotto, molto diverso dal principe azzurro della storia che tutti conosciamo. Alcune scelte che compie sono alquanto discutibili, frutto di un passato doloroso che ne ha forgiato carattere e influenzato decisioni e comportamenti.
Sono presenti molti colpi di scena e momenti di suspence che lasciano col fiato sospeso. Alcuni elementi sono un pó sopra le righe, in parte surreali, ma non stonano con la narrazione, che risulta essere una versione insolita e singolare, oscura e per l’appunto dark, che si legge molto velocemente e in maniera scorrevole.
*Ringrazio la CE per la copia ARC in Anteprima
https://www.instagram.com/p/CZ_fjbgM_...
Si tratta di una storia molto particolare, diversa dalle solite letture, è una rivisitazione della classica fiaba di Cenerentola ma in chiave dark, del genere erotic romance
Le rievocazioni sono presenti ma l’autrice le ha sapute sviluppare e proporre in un modo alquanto originale, nel suo stile intrigante e coinvolgente.
Il protagonista l’autrice lo dipinge come un uomo imperfetto, arrogante, minaccioso e pericolosamente rotto, molto diverso dal principe azzurro della storia che tutti conosciamo. Alcune scelte che compie sono alquanto discutibili, frutto di un passato doloroso che ne ha forgiato carattere e influenzato decisioni e comportamenti.
Sono presenti molti colpi di scena e momenti di suspence che lasciano col fiato sospeso. Alcuni elementi sono un pó sopra le righe, in parte surreali, ma non stonano con la narrazione, che risulta essere una versione insolita e singolare, oscura e per l’appunto dark, che si legge molto velocemente e in maniera scorrevole.
*Ringrazio la CE per la copia ARC in Anteprima
April 2, 2020
Wow…this story was a down-right naughty and delicious read!
But I must confess…this was the first book I’ve read by the author, and now I’m scolding myself for not reading her books sooner. Now I’m stocking up on ALL of her books because HOLY…this book was fantastic!
Stealing Cinderella is a modern re-telling of the classic fairy tale, but with a much darker, erotic, and twisted story line. We all know the outcome of the original Cinderella -- orphaned young woman raised by a wicked stepmother meets and falls in love the handsome Prince Charming. Whereas this book may have some similarities in the stepmother and prince aspects, the wickedness doesn’t stop with just the stepmother and the prince is anything but charming. I’m known for not being a big fan of dark romances. They’ve never been my cup of tea. But lately, I just can’t get enough of them. So of course, this book piqued my curiosity and fed my recent obsession for dark, dirty, and twisty.
But between all the wickedness and eroticism was the truly painful and emotional love story of Ella and Thorsen. Both have experienced traumatic pasts and carry scars buried deep below the surface. Their instant connection expands into a raw and obsessive romance as the story progresses, further emphasizing the dark angst and suspense that lingers throughout the plot. The strong level of depravity and debasement were, at times, a little tough to read. But I felt it was needed in order to fully convey how utterly wounded and tortured both characters were and showed the lengths they each went in order to heal and save one another.
A well written and intensely emotional love story of love, malevolence, and redemption, Stealing Cinderella is a wicked must-read you won’t soon forget!
*ARC provided for a voluntary honest review.* ~Kelly
But I must confess…this was the first book I’ve read by the author, and now I’m scolding myself for not reading her books sooner. Now I’m stocking up on ALL of her books because HOLY…this book was fantastic!
Stealing Cinderella is a modern re-telling of the classic fairy tale, but with a much darker, erotic, and twisted story line. We all know the outcome of the original Cinderella -- orphaned young woman raised by a wicked stepmother meets and falls in love the handsome Prince Charming. Whereas this book may have some similarities in the stepmother and prince aspects, the wickedness doesn’t stop with just the stepmother and the prince is anything but charming. I’m known for not being a big fan of dark romances. They’ve never been my cup of tea. But lately, I just can’t get enough of them. So of course, this book piqued my curiosity and fed my recent obsession for dark, dirty, and twisty.
But between all the wickedness and eroticism was the truly painful and emotional love story of Ella and Thorsen. Both have experienced traumatic pasts and carry scars buried deep below the surface. Their instant connection expands into a raw and obsessive romance as the story progresses, further emphasizing the dark angst and suspense that lingers throughout the plot. The strong level of depravity and debasement were, at times, a little tough to read. But I felt it was needed in order to fully convey how utterly wounded and tortured both characters were and showed the lengths they each went in order to heal and save one another.
A well written and intensely emotional love story of love, malevolence, and redemption, Stealing Cinderella is a wicked must-read you won’t soon forget!
*ARC provided for a voluntary honest review.* ~Kelly
April 7, 2020
Did you like fairy tales and princesses once upon a time? I did. Sleeping Beauty is still my favorite. Now, I'm all grown up, and I love to read retellings of fairy tales. Stealing Cinderella by A. Zavarelli is a darker take on the classic story. Check out my review below!
Synopsis:
Every royal has their dirty little secret. His was… me.
It should have been simple.
Go to the ball, meet the prince, and secure his patronage for my favorite charity.
But beneath the mask, the brooding beast of a man was not at all who I expected.
He was dark and intense and eerily quiet.
When I left, I could still feel the ghost of his touch branded into my skin.
He haunted my dreams, but I never expected to see him again.
Then he came for me.
And he took me.
And I learned that his darkness was a void I never could have conceived.
He’s the crown prince of Norway.
And, now, I’m his captive.
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
Well, that was different. I love retellings, and this version of Cinderella is no where near Disney appropriate. The basic premise remains about Ella, poorly treated, yet, kind and good, attending the ball, etc. The prince, Thor, is not charming, rather he is dark and brooding. This version is dark, erotic and a bit too much at times. Thor is a haunted man because of his childhood. Ella has been a slave, but she didn't go to the dark side like Thor did. Ella is initially his plaything, but trust evolves tentatively and carefully because their relationship could easily shatter. Thor and Ella are fragile creatures with wounded spirits and haunted memories that can't be healed quickly. Ella can shine a bit of light on Thor's black heart, if he will allow it, and it just might save them both. This is a unique spin on a classic story. I enjoyed reading this, but some parts were darker than I care for. While not my favorite, Stealing Cinderella is still a great read with all the right elements for a steamy, dark and slightly disturbing version of the story you know. * I received a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own. *
Synopsis:
Every royal has their dirty little secret. His was… me.
It should have been simple.
Go to the ball, meet the prince, and secure his patronage for my favorite charity.
But beneath the mask, the brooding beast of a man was not at all who I expected.
He was dark and intense and eerily quiet.
When I left, I could still feel the ghost of his touch branded into my skin.
He haunted my dreams, but I never expected to see him again.
Then he came for me.
And he took me.
And I learned that his darkness was a void I never could have conceived.
He’s the crown prince of Norway.
And, now, I’m his captive.
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
Well, that was different. I love retellings, and this version of Cinderella is no where near Disney appropriate. The basic premise remains about Ella, poorly treated, yet, kind and good, attending the ball, etc. The prince, Thor, is not charming, rather he is dark and brooding. This version is dark, erotic and a bit too much at times. Thor is a haunted man because of his childhood. Ella has been a slave, but she didn't go to the dark side like Thor did. Ella is initially his plaything, but trust evolves tentatively and carefully because their relationship could easily shatter. Thor and Ella are fragile creatures with wounded spirits and haunted memories that can't be healed quickly. Ella can shine a bit of light on Thor's black heart, if he will allow it, and it just might save them both. This is a unique spin on a classic story. I enjoyed reading this, but some parts were darker than I care for. While not my favorite, Stealing Cinderella is still a great read with all the right elements for a steamy, dark and slightly disturbing version of the story you know. * I received a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own. *
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